Microsoft might hold off on unveiling WP8 consumer features until Nokia World

Microsoft will reportedly hold off on unveiling any new Windows Phone 8 consumer features until Nokia World on September 5 and 6. This is a big change from the last two releases. Windows Phone 7 was unveiled fairly early to drum up excitement, while Windows Phone 7.5 “Mango” was shown off in great detail around the end of May last year.

We already know a few things about Windows Phone 8, but aside from the new Start screen and Wallet functionality, it’s mostly developer-centric. Rather than hold its own event during August, the software giant is likely to simply piggyback upon Nokia’s annual event. Of course, Nokia is more than just an OEM. The Finnish manufacturer is Microsoft’s biggest partner in the Windows Phone space.

Early September might seem like a long wait, but it’s really only a few weeks away. And with Windows Phone 8’s launch scheduled for some time in October – with in-store availability in November – making the announcement at Nokia World might not be a bad idea. What features are you most looking forward to?